Division of WaterState and Local Agencies Partner to Host Benson Creek Cleanup

Press Release Date:

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Contact Information:

Allison Fleck, 502-564-3410

The Kentucky Division of Water (DOW), Bluegrass PRIDE (Personal Responsibility In a Desirable Environment) and the Frankfort Sewer Department invite the public to participate in a cleanup of Frankfort’s Benson Creek from 9 a.m. until noon Sept. 25. A rain date has been set for Oct. 2.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the Benson Creek boat ramp on Benson Valley Road in Frankfort. Refreshments, music, displays from local environmental organizations and children’s activities will be available throughout the morning.

Common forms of litter include aluminum cans, plastic bags and bottles, paper products and used food containers. When litter is washed into creeks and streams, it can impact aquatic life. Small amounts of litter from your home or neighborhood add up to a big problem when it comes from an entire metro area. This pollution can have harmful effects on drinking water supplies, recreational use and wildlife.

“Volunteers are critical to the work of beautifying, cleaning and restoring public lands in Kentucky and across the country,” said Sandy Gruzesky, DOW director. “We invite volunteers from schools and universities, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and all concerned citizens to demonstrate the American tradition of stewardship through service.”

The event is being held in conjunction with National Public Lands Day, a program sponsored by the National Environmental Education Foundation.